Craig Berube's New Tactics Strike Gold for the Maple Leafs
Craig Berube made some big lineup moves ahead of Toronto's game against Buffalo and it paid off, but the question remains: Will he stick with the changes?
With Toronto changing their lines on Sunday against the Sabres, it turned out to be a great bit of foresight as both Max Domi and Nick Robertson scored, John Tavares had a hat-trick, and adding William Nylander to the first line.
But those changes, as good as they were, are a sign of Berube's constant shuffling of players in and out of the lineup. It was a stroke of brilliance that paid off, but will the Leafs head coach stay consistent?
Berube's Gamble Paid Off For The Maple Leafs
It was a new look with Berube putting Domi, Robertson and Bobby McMann together but the chemistry was clearly there at least for tonight.
Both Robertson and Domi had a goal and an assist each, meanwhile McMann chipped in with two assists and the line was a combined plus-7 for the night. Each man looked rejuvenated together, though Max Domi would tell you otherwise.
Speaking to media after the game, Domi wasn't too concerned about scoring his first goal since April 6:
"It doesn't change anything. A win's a win. Massive win, obviously coming from behind, it's not easy against a team like that. Got to give them credit, they come out flying. So, felt good to get back into it, obviously a huge win."
It also got the attention of Leafs fans everywhere, as they were elated that the trio have put something great together, especially Domi and Robertson.
It wasn't lost on their head coach either, and while it's too soon to say if this is going to be the catalyst for the bottom half's offense, it left a good impression on their head coach:
«They played excellently. They were much more engaged with their physical play, hounding, and puck battles. They did a really good job. That line was excellent for us, and we needed them to be.»
It's the exact type of play Toronto needed from their third line, and while McMann has been solid, it's a fantastic sight to see both struggling forwards make an impact.
The addition of William Nylander to the first line as well added a new dimension to the Matthews and Marner pairing, and gives Toronto a deadly trio of superstars to experiment with.
It was a gritty, tough comeback win for the Maple Leafs on Sunday, and while their third line was a big reason for their win, it remains up to Craig Berube whether to stick with it, or change things all over again.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 16 | 1130 ANSWERS Craig Berube's New Tactics Strike Gold for the Maple Leafs Do you think Craig Berube needs to keep the same lines together? | ||
| Yes it clearly worked! | 824 | 72.9 % |
| No, he got lucky! | 306 | 27.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
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